Flat Out


.flat-out-like-a-lizard

“The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.” Psalm 51:17

flat-out (-out′) – adjective
at full speed, with maximum effort, etc.
absolute; thorough; definite

‘Flat out’ is a phrase suggesting maximum effort and speed, but in Australia it usually means flat out on your face as in the expression “He’s flat out, like a lizard drinking.”

I feel flat-out…

There are days where I feel like a colossal (huge, massive, large, enormous, gigantic) failure. Days when I can’t think of one good thing I’ve accomplished…yesterday and today are those days. Without going into major details, let’s just say that my financial planning could use some more finances and even more planning.

I feel flat-out…and a little green and scaly.

Broken? Yep…I think so. I am worshiping, I am trusting and I am struggling. I am not sure Father God will answer my prayer the way I want but I know He will answer it…and with my best interest in mind. He is good no matter the answer…that I know. His goodness came in the form of an email and it brought encouragement along with it.

I got this email from Frank (who I consider to be my spiritual father), I’ve mentioned Frank before in my blog (here)

Good Morning Bro,

I am writing to you via e-mail knowing that what I am writing to you is for the Father’s glory and do not want to put a stumbling block in your way. Jay, I am so delighted in seeing what God our Father has been doing in and through your life, as you have laid yourself out on His alter. Man, you are such an encouragement to all of us. Look brother, I know from where God has taken you from, and He has and will continue to do might things in your yielded-ness, submission and obedience to Him and His Holy Spirit.

Thanks so much for helping to set an example and model for families, all that God can and is doing in yielded vessels. Both you and Chris have laid it all on the line for Him, setting aside all for His glory. Brother I know this is the work of the Holy Spirit and God receives all the glory and honor, but I want to encourage you for being the earthen vessel that show His transcendent power!! It is a blessing and honor to see His mighty hand working, it is an encouragement for all of us to continue to seek Him and become all that He has for each of His children.

Be blessed my brother,
Frank

That was a much needed word and it has me thinking. In the middle of any struggle God’s goodness gives strength and boldness. God’s goodness not only makes knowing Him a reality but give us access on a much deeper level. The boldness comes in a position of security not pride of a position.

Do you know the old saying, “It’s who you know” ? Well, knowing the Father changes everything. There is approval when the Father calls our name, not shame. There is loving correction when He calls our name, not condemnation. There is acceptance when He calls our name, never rejection. That’s relational boldness, what better security is there?

“Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace; that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” Hebrews 4:16

I feel flat-out…relying on Him

“Oh that men would praise Jehovah for His goodness, and for His wonderful works to the sons of man!” Psalms 107:8

Thanks for listening to my ramblings!

Blessings,
Jay

Comments

jasonS said…
We can be flat out in pain then find ourselves flat out on the altar. I love your honesty and confidence in God, Jay. "I am not sure Father God will answer my prayer the way I want but I know He will answer it" --that's trusting in God's goodness. Thank you.

Also, I had an experience recently like the one you mentioned. It was in person with someone I very much respect. Though there were a lot of wonderful words he said, what I heard was "I believe you can make it. You can do this." I had been having a really tough time and I didn't know how much I needed to hear that, but something came alive inside me. It is powerful how we can encourage one another.

You definitely encourage me, Jay. Thank you.
Jay Cookingham said…
Thanks Jason, I have walked with Him too long to start doubting Him or His goodness. His faithfulness is beyond my understanding and that I trust. Thanks for the encouragement bro'...someday I hope we meet but until then be blessed my friend.
HisFireFly said…
Flat out before Him is where I want to be. It isn't easy. It isn't pain-free. But I want to be yielded for His glory. Not sure I'm there yet.. but I'm praying.

Be encouraged Jay, He is well pleased with you.
SandraHeskaKing said…
I want to be flat out like a lizard drinking--deep.

What a beautiful brother you have. What a beautiful brother your brother has.
Tony Alicea said…
This is such a testament to how much God loves us. In the middle of a time when we are down, He uses others to speak His affirmation over us. I love that Frank probably had no idea what you were feeling at the moment, and he gave you words that strengthened you.

Thanks for sharing and for being an encouragement, Jay. I'm honored to have connected with you.
Jay Cookingham said…
Tony...thanks Bro'...it is I who is honored...by your words and insight.
Jay Cookingham said…
Sandra...that was very kind of you...thanks. Frank is an awesome brother for sure.
Jay Cookingham said…
Bless you sis for your encouragement...I am blessed by it!
Bill (cycleguy) said…
No Jay...thank you for rambling. Or I could say "Ramble away." What a fantastic but needed (for me) testimony to the glory of the Father. Not all that sure of what you are going through but know you are prayed for every day.
Jay Cookingham said…
And I appreciate those prayers bro'...very, very much...Bless you!

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